Sunday, July 11, 2010

John Deere Five Speed Mixte

Right next to this bicycle was an old Trek mountain bike (see next post) in a much better state of maintenance than this old work horse, so I just snapped a few pictures and then took off on the Trek. I didn't feel like a couple of hours of cleaning, lubing and adjusting when there was an alternative. But with a little attention I think this ~40 year old bicycle would take you places with its five gears and heavy steel almost as well as a new bike with 20 or 30 speeds. With this frame, you could mount a rack and carry farm implements around on it if needed. Or, possibly, carry your fresh eggs and extra garden strawberries (you can only put up so many quarts before it starts to seem important to share them) down to the local farmers' market. Or, throw a carpet scrap on the rack and carry your kid to watch the July 4 fireworks. With bungies, stuff you find along the road will find its way home with you. This bike has done these things before, and will do them again. Get up. Go ride.

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Let's Just Ride

I commute by bicycle in Phoenix, Arizona, a metropolis suited to riding bicycles of all types, with weather, mountains, roads, canals, and paths to keep me forever spinning. My favorite bike tools are an open mind, creative engagement, curiosity, compassion, common ground, and the search for knowledge.

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